How humour in peer play helps children connect, belong and thrive

Australian research is highlighting the important role that humour and shared laughter play in early learning environments, underscoring why these seemingly ‘silly’ moments deserve greater recognition in educational practice.

For many educators, laughter is a regular part of the day whether it’s a made-up game, a funny face, or a playful exchange. But beyond the joy of the moment, humour in peer play is proving to be a powerful tool for supporting identity, social development and emotional wellbeing.

Emerging research from Australian early childhood settings reveals that humour is more than just fun; it plays a role in navigating peer relationships, diffusing conflict and fostering emotional resilience.

In early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings, these findings align closely with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), which positions relationships, identity and communication as foundational to children’s learning.

Educators can foster humorous peer play without requiring new resources, just an openness to following children’s lead and observing the learning in laughter. Research and practice suggest the following ideas may help support children’s social learning through play:

• Celebrate ‘nonsense’: Don’t rush to redirect silly conversations. Children often use these exchanges to connect, problem-solve and play with language.
• Coach gently: Encourage children to notice how their humour is received by others, helping them develop an understanding of boundaries, empathy and respectful interactions.
• Reflect and document: Capture playful moments in learning stories or group journals. These reflections can validate children’s identities and highlight rich social learning.
• Create room for risk: Humour often involves testing reactions. Safe, responsive environments give children room to be bold, funny and sometimes awkward, all part of growing up.

As early childhood services continue to embed Belonging, Being and Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework Version 2.0, recognising the developmental value of humour can help inform and strengthen intentional teaching and pedagogical decision-making.

In a time where connection, regulation and identity are key priorities, tuning into the giggles may offer deeper insights than we think.

Sometimes, one of the most powerful ways to foster a sense of belonging is through shared laughter with someone who understands the moment.